Pipe bursting apparatus

Abstract

Apparatus for replacing underground pipe is described, including a resistance plate from which a pair of hydraulic cylinders extend perpendicularly parallel with each other. The cylinders operate cyclically with a pulling bridge having a cable gripper to provide a sequence of pulling strokes to a cable pulling a mole. The mole pulls a replacement pipe behind it through the old pipe, which has been burst, slit, or expanded by the mole. The resistance plate is provided with a slot, and the cylinders are positioned to allow the mole to be pulled substantially completely into the apparatus. A holding bridge is releasably mounted spanning the slot in the reaction plate to position a second cable gripper for holding the cable on the return stroke of the pulling bridge. The holding bridge may be removed at the end of the pulling operation to accommodate the mole. A robust, lightweight construction is described.

Description

[0001] Cross References to Related Applications [0002] This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Application No. 61 / 458,981 filed December 3, 2010, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. technical field [0003] This invention relates to the replacement of underground pipes using what is known as a pipe rupture device. In particular, the present invention relates to an improved apparatus for replacing underground pipe by rupturing or splitting the pipe in situ while pulling the replacement pipe to substantially the same position. Background technique [0004] Pipe rupture technology is a known technique for replacing underground pipes, such as sewer, water and natural gas pipes, without having to dig trenches to remove the old pipe and locate the new pipe. When a pipe breaks, a rupturing head or driver is pushed or pulled through the old pipe to rupture or split the old pipe, usually simultaneously with a replacement pipe being fed into pla...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

[0007] However, tube rupture devices in smaller applications are still relatively large, heavy and complex

Therefore, it is physically difficult to operate such a device, and the material and manufacturing costs are considerable

At the same time, due to the large pulling force required in the pulling process, high-pressure hydraulic devices are often used, which further increases the manufacturing cost

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